Noah Sinclair
CND Shellac Gel Nails are a popular choice for those wanting long-lasting, shiny nails. CND Plexigel is a brush-in-a-bottle gel nail enhancement system that provides strength, length and shape. The process of applying CND gel nail polish involves several steps, including cleansing the nails, applying a thin layer of base coat, curing the nails under an LED lamp, applying two thin layers of nail polish, and finishing with a top coat. It is important to note that each layer should be thin for optimal results. Additionally, the CND Shellac system includes specific products like the CND Shellac Base Coat and CND Solar Oil to ensure the best outcome.
Characteristics and Values Table for Applying CND Gel Nail Polish
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Cleanse hands | Wash hands with soap and water and towel dry |
| Cleanse nails | Massage COOLBLUE™ Hand Cleanser into hands and scrub nails with an acetone-based polish remover and a lint-free pad |
| Trim nails | Trim nails to desired length with nail clippers |
| Shape nails | File the edge of the nail with a 240-grit nail file to shape the nail without damaging the nail bed |
| Remove cuticles | Apply CuticleAway™ Professional Cuticle Remover |
| Base coat | Apply a thin coat of CND Shellac Gel Base Coat to all five nails, sealing the edges and curing for 10 seconds in the CND LED Lamp |
| Nail polish | Apply a thin layer of CND Shellac nail polish to the nail plate and edge, curing each hand for one minute in the CND LED Lamp |
| Top coat | Apply a layer of CND Plexigel Protector Top Coat to all five nails, sealing the free edge and curing for one minute in the CND LED Lamp |
| Wipe nails | Lightly wipe nails with a lint-free pad or cosmetic sponge saturated with 99% Isopropyl Alcohol to remove the top film |
| Condition nails | Apply a drop of CND Solar Oil to condition nails |
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What You'll Learn
Preparing your nails
Firstly, ensure you have thoroughly washed your hands with soap and running water for 20-30 seconds. Dry your hands with a towel. This step is crucial for hygiene purposes and creates a clean base for the gel polish application. Next, massage your hands with a hand cleanser, such as the COOL BLUE Hand Cleanser, to further cleanse the skin and remove any residual dirt or oils.
If you have existing nail polish, remove it with an acetone-based polish remover and a lint-free pad. It is important to start with a clean nail bed to ensure the gel polish adheres properly. After removing polish, trim your nails to the desired length using nail clippers. File the edges of your nails with a soft grit nail file, shaping them to your preference. Be careful not to over-file, as this can damage the nail bed.
If you have weak or splitting nails, consider using a nail treatment or a strengthening foundation, such as Brisa Gel, before applying the gel polish. This will help fortify your nails and create a smoother surface for the gel polish to adhere to. Once your nails are shaped and prepped, you can apply a cuticle remover to ensure your cuticles are neat and tidy. Push back your cuticles gently, being careful not to cut or damage them, as this can lead to infection.
Finally, you can apply a thin layer of a nail surface cleanser, such as Scrubfresh, to ensure your nails are ready for the base coat. Follow this step-by-step guide to prepare your nails for a CND gel nail polish application, ensuring a neat and professional-looking manicure.
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Applying the base coat
Firstly, it is important to prepare your nails by cleansing and dehydrating them. Use a lint-free, plastic-backed pad to thoroughly cleanse the nail plate layers. Pull back the skin and scrub the nails as if you were removing nail polish. This step ensures that your nails are free from any oils or residue, creating a clean base for the polish to adhere to.
Next, shake the CND Shellac Base Coat vigorously to ensure that all the ingredients are well mixed. This step is important as it helps to prevent separation and ensures a consistent application. Remember to also check the consistency of your gel nail polish.
Now you are ready to apply the base coat. Apply a thin coat of the CND Shellac Gel Base Coat to each nail, sealing the edges after each application. It is important to apply thin layers to achieve the best results. Be sure to leave a tiny free margin around the perimeter of the nail to avoid contact with the skin.
After applying the base coat to all five nails, it's time to cure them. Place your hand into the CND LED Lamp and cure for 10 seconds using preset button 1. Do not remove the top film layer after removing your nails from the lamp. The base coat acts as a foundation for the colour coat, helping the polish adhere to your nails and ensuring a longer-lasting manicure.
By following these detailed steps for applying the base coat, you can ensure a smooth and even application, creating the perfect canvas for the colour coat of your choice. Remember, thin layers are key to achieving a professional-looking CND Shellac manicure.
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Applying the colour
Firstly, prepare your nails. File the edge of the nail with a 240-grit nail file to shape them. With CND Shellac, avoid filing your nail bed to prevent damage. If you have weak or splitting nails, use Brisa Gel as a foundation to strengthen your nails before applying the colour.
Next, shake the CND Shellac Base Coat vigorously to ensure the ingredients are well-mixed. You can use a nail polish shaker for this step if you wish. Then, apply a thin coat of the CND Shellac Gel Base Coat to all five nails, sealing the edges after each application. Remember to leave a tiny free margin around the perimeter of the nail to avoid contact with the skin. Cure each hand for 10 seconds (preset button 1) in the CND LED Lamp.
Now, for the colour! Shake your chosen CND Shellac nail polish to ensure the ingredients are mixed. Then, apply a thin layer to the nail plate and edge. A good application will result in a slightly semi-sheer appearance. Apply the colour to all five nails and cure each hand for one minute (preset button 2S) in the CND LED Lamp. Do not remove the top film after curing.
If you make any messy applications on the cuticle or skin, use a wooden cuticle stick to wipe it clean.
Finally, apply a layer of CND Plexigel Protector Top Coat to all five nails, sealing the free edge after each application. Cure for one minute in the CND LED Lamp using preset button 3.
Your colour application is now complete! You can finish the process by lightly wiping the nails with a lint-free pad or cosmetic sponge saturated with 99% Isopropyl Alcohol to remove the top film.
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Sealing the nail
Prepare the Nails:
Before applying any polish, it's important to start with clean, dry nails. Ask your client to wash their hands with soap and running water for 20-30 seconds, and then towel dry. Next, massage their hands with the COOL BLUE Hand Cleanser to ensure their hands and nails are thoroughly cleansed. If your client has existing nail polish, remove it using an acetone-based polish remover and a plastic-backed lint-free pad. If necessary, trim their nails to the desired length using nail clippers.
Seal with CND Plexigel Bonder:
The CND Plexigel Bonder is a clear gel enhancer that helps to strengthen the nail and improve the adhesion of the polish. Apply a thin layer of the CND Plexigel Bonder to all five nails, sealing the edges after each application. Be sure to leave a tiny free margin around the perimeter of the nail to avoid contact with the skin. Cure for 10 seconds in the CND LED Lamp using the preset button 1. Do not remove the top film after curing.
Seal with CND Plexigel Shaper:
The CND Plexigel Shaper is used to build and perfect the shape of the nail. Apply a thin, even layer of the CND Plexigel Shaper to the natural nail, again sealing the free edge after application and leaving a tiny free margin. Apply this layer to all five nails and cure for one minute in the CND LED Lamp using preset button 2B. As with the previous step, do not remove the top film. If needed, apply a second layer of Shaper to perfect the shape, using a light touch to float the gel over the nail.
Seal with CND Plexigel Protector Top Coat:
The final step in sealing the nail is to apply the CND Plexigel Protector Top Coat. This is a clear, high-gloss protective top coat that completes the CND Plexigel system. Apply a layer of the Protector Top Coat to all five nails, sealing the free edge after application. Cure for one minute in the CND LED Lamp using preset button 3.
Aftercare:
Lightly wipe the nails with a lint-free pad or cosmetic sponge saturated with 99% Isopropyl Alcohol to remove the top film. Finish by applying a drop of CND Solar Oil to condition the nails and promote healthy, hydrated nail beds.
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Aftercare
After your CND gel nail polish has been applied, there are a few things to keep in mind to ensure the health of your nails and the longevity of your manicure. Firstly, it is recommended to use CND Solar Oil every day to prevent dry or splitting nails. This is especially important if you notice your nails becoming dry after using CND gel nail polish.
In addition, it is important to keep your nails clean and free of any debris or dirt. Use a disinfectable scrub brush to gently clean your nails if necessary. You should also avoid any activities that may cause chipping or peeling of the gel nail polish, such as biting your nails or using your nails as tools.
If you wish to remove your CND gel nail polish, it is recommended to do so by soaking or drilling. Avoid picking or peeling the polish off as this can damage your natural nails. To maintain the health of your nails, it is recommended to take breaks between manicures and to use a nail strengthener, especially if your nails are weak or prone to splitting.
Finally, be sure to maintain the overall health of your hands and nails by keeping them moisturized and protected. Use hand creams or lotions to hydrate your skin and cuticles, and always wear gloves when performing tasks that may be harsh on your hands, such as cleaning or gardening.
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Frequently asked questions
First, wash your hands with soap and water and towel dry. Then, massage a hand cleanser into your hands to ensure your skin and nails are thoroughly clean. Next, remove any existing nail colour with an acetone-based polish remover and a lint-free pad. If necessary, trim your nails to the desired length using nail clippers. Finally, shape the edge of your nails with a nail file.
Start by applying a thin coat of the CND Shellac Gel Base Coat to all five nails, sealing the edge after each application and curing for 10 seconds in the CND LED Lamp. Then, apply a thin layer of CND Shellac nail polish to the nail plate and edge, curing each hand for one minute. If you make any mistakes, use a wooden cuticle stick to wipe away any mess on the skin.
To finish, apply a layer of the CND Plexigel Protector Top Coat to all five nails, sealing the free edge after application and curing for one minute in the CND LED Lamp. Finally, wipe away the top film with a lint-free pad or cosmetic sponge saturated with 99% Isopropyl Alcohol.
